Investigating how SGLT2 inhibitors can help treat fatty liver disease in children

Mechanisms of SGLT2 Inhibition in Pediatric NAFLD

NIH-funded research Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago · NIH-11039933

This study is looking at how a type of medication called SGLT2 inhibitors can help reduce liver fat in children with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, especially those who are overweight or have insulin resistance, to find better treatment options for them.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionLurie Children's Hospital of Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-11039933 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is the most common liver disease in children and often linked to obesity and insulin resistance. The study aims to explore the effects of sodium glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) on reducing liver fat in pediatric patients who are not yet diabetic. By examining how these medications can improve liver health and metabolic function, the research seeks to provide new treatment options for affected children. The approach includes assessing changes in liver fat and metabolic markers in a controlled clinical setting.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children and adolescents aged 2 to 19 years who are diagnosed with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and exhibit signs of obesity or insulin resistance.

Not a fit: Patients who are not diagnosed with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease or those who have already developed type 2 diabetes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective pharmacotherapy options for children suffering from NAFLD, improving their liver health and overall quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with SGLT2 inhibitors in adults, but this approach in the pediatric population is novel and has not yet been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions adult onset diabetes
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.